Meet our founder, Cathy!

Hello! I’m Cathy, a fabric nut with an eye for color. I am a two-time cancer survivor, wife to a wonderful husband, mother to four amazing kids, and lover of all things Auburn! I’m a former banker turned retail shop owner who’s been passionate about design, décor, and DIY projects for years. I grew up a seamstress’s daughter, and my mother not only made all of my clothes but also raised me to be involved in creating our home décor. I love finding color combinations that work and liven up a space. Now that my kids are all grown, it is a new season for me. I wanted to take my passion for refining furniture and home décor out of my own home and use it to help others design pieces they will love.

Coming from a big family, we had a surplus of furniture that we were not using. It just made sense to make these dated yet functional pieces into something affordable and unique. Why buy an expensive, mass-produced piece of furniture when you could let us take your well-worn items and make them into something fresh and one-of-a kind? We transform what is in reach into character pieces with a touch of paint and hard work. We would love to work with you and make your well-loved pieces become something you will love even more.

More About the Refinery

The Refinery can be found at 906 Columbus Parkway in Opelika, Alabama, right next to Angel’s Antiques and Flea Mall. We have pieces that have been recycled and up cycled with paint and stains. We offer buy-outright for pieces that you are ready to part with, but we’d love to take your piece and transform it for you. We can bring paint technique, fresh fabrics, and repair services to the rescue for your pieces. Breathing new life into old furniture, lamps, frames, mirror, the possibilities are endless.

Some people already know their style and what color pallet they prefer. Some of us may not be that lucky and require a little inspiration to help spur our vision. Whichever you may be, we are happy to help you! Feel free to bring in a swatch of fabric, a throw pillow, a wood sample with your paint color, or even a picture that catches your eye. We can work from any inspiration you might have!

Restore

The Refinery has something for everyone. We love to recycle, restore, and reuse all types of furniture. Our showroom has a large selection of restored pieces ready for any home or patio.

Repurpose

At the Refinery, our goal is to help you make the most of your home décor. Instead of replacing your older, sentimental items - we'll help you repurpose and recreate these pieces to give your house a new look for less.

Refine

Here at the Refinery, we love projects. That's why we want to help you with yours! Our Blackberry House paint classes can help make that impossible do-it-yourself project, possible.